Drumming News
Colin Petersen, the original drummer of the Bee Gees, has passed away at the age of 78. His death was confirmed on Monday, November 18, 2024, through a heartfelt message posted on social media by his current band, *Best of The Bee Gees*. The post read, “It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our dear friend Colin ‘Smiley’ Petersen.” The message went on to say, “He enriched our lives and bound our group with love, care and respect. Not sure how we can go on without his glowing smile and deep friendship. We love you Col. Rest in Peace.”
Although the cause of death has not been disclosed, Petersen’s legacy as a key figure in the Bee Gees’ early years remains undeniable. Joining the Gibb brothers—Barry, Robin, and Maurice—Petersen became the first non-Gibb member of the iconic group when he was recruited in 1966. His arrival came at a pivotal time, just as the Bee Gees were establishing themselves in the music world after relocating to London from Australia.
Petersen played a crucial role in shaping the band’s sound during their formative years, contributing to some of their most famous tracks from the 1960s. His drumming can be heard on classic songs such as *I Started a Joke*, *To Love Somebody*, and *I Just Gotta Get a Message to You*. His rhythmic contributions helped the Bee Gees secure a place in music history during a period of rapid growth and success for the band.
One of the defining moments of the Bee Gees’ early career was the release of “Bee Gees’ 1st” in 1967, which reached the Top 10 in both the U.S. and the U.K. The album featured several hit singles, including “New York Mining Disaster 1941” and “Holiday”, both of which showcased Petersen’s steady, creative drumming.
After leaving the Bee Gees in 1969, Petersen briefly worked with a new group, Humpy Bong, and later transitioned out of the music industry. However, he continued to stay connected to the Bee Gees’ legacy. He was part of “Best of The Bee Gees”, a tribute band that performed their timeless hits.
Petersen was born Frederick Colin Petersen in Queensland, Australia. He was raised in the coastal town of Margate, where he attended Humpybong State School alongside the Gibb brothers, though not at the same time. His early passion for music led him to take up piano and drums, with his notable career beginning as a child actor in the 1956 film “Smiley”, which gave him the nickname that would stick throughout his career.
Petersen’s drumming style, while not technically complex, was deeply intuitive. In a 2022 interview, he reflected on his approach to drumming, saying, “I wasn’t the most technically skilled drummer, but I think that sometimes less is more. When you’re limited, you have to get creative—just like Chuck Berry, who made magic with just a few chords.” He spoke fondly of his time with the Bee Gees, recalling how the group would often enter the studio without a song in mind, allowing for spontaneous experimentation with rhythms and tempos that became a signature of their sound.
While his departure from the Bee Gees was somewhat tumultuous, in part due to managerial tensions, Petersen’s contributions to the band’s early success cannot be overstated. His departure marked the end of an era for the Bee Gees, just as their shift toward the disco era would propel them to even greater heights.
Petersen remained involved in music and performance in the years following his departure from the Bee Gees. He worked as a manager and later returned to the stage as part of *Best of The Bee Gees*. He is survived by his two sons, Jaime and Ben, from his marriage to Joanne Newfield.
In the wake of Petersen’s passing, tributes have poured in from fans and former colleagues, many expressing admiration for his contributions to music and the warmth he brought to his friendships. One tribute from a fan reads, “My sincere condolences to Colin’s family and all who he touched. To the *Best of The Bee Gees* Show group, my deepest sympathy to you all.” Others have shared their sorrow, acknowledging Petersen’s invaluable role in the Bee Gees’ success and the joy he brought to those around him.
Petersen’s passing comes just days after the death of another former Bee Gees drummer, Dennis Bryon, highlighting the loss of two key figures from the Bee Gees’ musical journey. Barry Gibb, the only surviving member of the Bee Gees, now carries forward the legacy of a band that defined an era of pop music.
As the world remembers Colin ‘Smiley’ Petersen, his influence on the Bee Gees’ sound and success remains an enduring part of their history, ensuring his place in music history will never be forgotten.
